“I feel like I’m barely hanging on… and now I’m pregnant.”
An unplanned pregnancy can shake your world. You might feel overwhelmed, anxious, numb—or even all of these at once. Whatever you’re experiencing emotionally, your feelings are valid and normal.
Will Abortion Affect My Mental Health?
It’s wise to ask this question. When facing a pregnancy decision—whether abortion, adoption, or parenting—it’s important to consider not just the physical aspects, but the emotional and mental impact as well. Every path leads to change, and that change will affect your life in different ways.
How Could Abortion Impact Mental Health?
You deserve straight answers. While every woman processes life’s challenges differently, research shows that abortion can increase the risk of mental health challenges for some women. If you’ve already faced emotional difficulties, an abortion could intensify those struggles—or introduce new ones.
One study found that women who had abortions later in pregnancy were more likely to experience symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).¹ Some women report immediate relief after an abortion, but those feelings may give way to:
- Anxiety
- Depression or sadness
- Guilt or regret
- Anger
- Loneliness or withdrawal
- Trouble sleeping
- Relationship strain
- Harmful or suicidal thoughts
- Substance use
These emotions may arise soon after, or even months or years later—sometimes triggered by life changes or another pregnancy.²⁻⁵
If you’re having thoughts of self-harm, please call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 right away. You are not alone.
What About the Abortion Pill?
Some women assume the abortion pill is less emotionally difficult than a surgical abortion. But chemical abortions have their own risks. The process typically happens at home, alone, without medical support. It can be physically painful, and many women are shocked by the emotional impact—especially when they see identifiable body parts in the process of passing the pregnancy. This can be deeply traumatic.
Can Abortion Help if I’m Already Struggling Emotionally?
When life feels overwhelming, abortion might seem like a way to reduce the stress. But studies show that abortion does not improve mental health. In fact, one study found a 30% increased risk of developing mental health issues in women who had abortions.⁶ Many seek counseling afterward.⁷
Pregnancy—planned or not—can be emotionally challenging. But research suggests that women who carry their pregnancy to term generally experience fewer mental health problems than those who choose abortion.¹
If you’re feeling knocked off balance, we get it. You’re not alone—and you don’t have to walk through this without support.
What Should I Do If I’m Considering Abortion?
The best first step is to get the facts. Knowledge is power.
- Is your pregnancy viable? One in four pregnancies ends in miscarriage—an abortion might not even be needed.
- How far along are you? This determines what type of abortion you may be eligible for. The abortion pill, for instance, is only FDA-approved for use up to 10 weeks.
- Do you need STI testing or additional medical evaluation? An ultrasound can confirm viability, determine gestational age, and check for ectopic pregnancy.
At Phoenix Women’s Clinics, our compassionate medical team provides free services—including ultrasounds, pregnancy confirmation, and information about all your options—so you can make an informed decision that’s best for you.
📞 Call (602) 305-5100 to schedule your free appointment.
I’ve Already Had an Abortion… and I Don’t Feel Better
If you’ve had an abortion and are struggling emotionally, you’re not alone. Many women feel unexpected grief, regret, or sadness afterward. That’s real—and it’s okay to talk about it.
We’re here to listen, not to judge. Let us help you find peace, healing, and hope.
📞 Reach out to us at (602) 305-5100.
You are not alone. At Phoenix Women’s Clinics, we provide a safe, confidential, and compassionate place to explore your options and find support—wherever you are in your journey.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Pregnancy Confirmation // Free Ultrasound // Options Counseling // Abortion Information